Does anybody know how well police radar passes through tinted windows? I want to make sure I'll still be able to pick up radar threats behind me before I tint my windows.


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Dean
Santa Barbara, CA
1974 280C
1984 300SD

Depends on the tint but I know certain types (as well as laminate windhields like Audi, some minivans, etc) make even a V1 nearly blind. There was a Car&Driver article on this awhile back. (can't remember the issue but if I find it I'll let you know) Sorry but I don't have data in front of me on specific brands of tint. Your best bet is to talk to the tech department at Valentine research and/or the tint manufacturers.

Hope this helps...Lee

After looking into aftermarket tint, I've noticed that they do not adversely affect radar performance though there are a few brands that hype a "radar-absorbing" capability (presumably to make you"invisible" to cops).

I think BS

Anyway, Lee is correct regarding some windshields that certain mfgrs are using these days messing with inboard radar. Audi in particular. However, Audi leaves two spaces on their windshields w/o the tint (just below the driver's visor and directly in front of the rearview mirror - both the typical radar hangers.

I thought MBZ was doing this on some of the new cars as well??

http://www.valentine1.com/lab/MikesLabRpt3.asp

No noticeable performance lost with my V1 in a 2000 E class..

There is ABSOLUTELY a difference based upon the type of tint. Owning a V1 and using it in both of my cars (one with a reflective tint that has metal in it) I've noticed a clear difference....with the reflective tint Radar barely gets thru the side & rear windows (passing by a police officer running radar, signal was strong to the front, went a bit to the side then went away...in my other car I'd be able to track him from front to side to rear very consistently.

So, if you have reflective tint, beware!

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Best regards, Michael
'92 500E
'88 300TE